When undergoing orthodontic treatment, patients may notice small additions to their teeth known as bite blocks. These dental tools are small, temporary appliances used in conjunction with braces or clear aligners. Their presence serves multiple purposes beyond simply supporting the main treatment mechanism. This article explores the specific functions and necessity of these devices in achieving a successful, stable bite correction.
What Orthodontic Bite Blocks Are
Bite blocks are small, raised pads constructed from a durable, tooth-colored composite resin or acrylic material. An orthodontist bonds these pads directly onto the biting surfaces (occlusal surfaces) of specific back teeth, such as the molars or premolars. The material is strong enough to withstand the forces of chewing but is easily polished away once its functional period is complete.
In some cases, the blocks are placed on the tongue-facing (lingual) surfaces of the upper front teeth, where they are called bite turbos. Their purpose is to create a physical barrier between the upper and lower dental arches. These temporary devices function only during the initial phase of treatment while the bite relationship is being actively modified.
Protecting Brackets and Teeth from Collisions
One of the main functions of bite blocks is to prevent the patient from fully closing their mouth into a damaging position. This protection is especially relevant in cases involving a deep bite, where the upper front teeth significantly overlap the lower front teeth. Without intervention, this vertical overlap can lead to complications.
During a deep bite closure, the lower teeth can collide directly with the brackets affixed to the back of the upper teeth or the gum tissue behind them. This forceful contact can dislodge or break the delicate orthodontic brackets and wires, requiring additional appointments for repair. Furthermore, repetitive trauma to the soft palate or gum tissue can cause painful sores or injuries, delaying the overall treatment progress.
By raising the bite and creating a small gap between the arches, bite blocks eliminate this destructive contact. They act as protective stops, ensuring that chewing forces are absorbed by the block material rather than the brackets or soft tissues. This protection allows the orthodontic appliance to remain intact and function as intended without mechanical failures.
Facilitating Tooth Alignment and Bite Correction
Beyond their protective role, bite blocks facilitate complex tooth movements that would otherwise be impossible. By separating the upper and lower teeth, they create what orthodontists call “clearance” or inter-arch space. This space is necessary for certain teeth to be moved, rotated, or leveled without colliding with the opposing arch.
When the bite is raised, the lower jaw is temporarily disengaged from its habitual, incorrect position, allowing for subtle changes in muscle memory and joint alignment. This freedom of movement is particularly important when the orthodontist needs to level the lower arch or correct crowded teeth by rotating them into place. Without the clearance provided by the blocks, the opposing teeth would physically block the intended movement, stalling treatment.
The separation also helps to correct the overall relationship between the upper and lower jaws, addressing various forms of malocclusion. For example, in a deep bite, the blocks allow the lower arch to be brought forward and the upper teeth to be lifted (intruded) without interference. This process helps to re-establish a stable, functional, and healthy bite relationship, which is the ultimate goal of orthodontic therapy.